Lack of Internet Access in German Care Homes Raises Concerns

Advocates for seniors criticize slow progress in providing Wi-Fi in care facilities, highlighting barriers to social connection for vulnerable residents.

The German National Association of Senior Citizens Organizations has called for mandatory Wi-Fi access in all elderly care homes, a demand they have been making since 2017.
A study by Verivox found that four German states, including Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, lack legal requirements for internet access in care facilities.
Experts describe the current situation as a 'federal patchwork,' leaving digital inclusion for seniors inconsistent and unreliable across the country.
Advocates emphasize that internet access is essential for bedbound or mobility-impaired residents to stay connected with family and friends.
While some progress has been made since the COVID-19 pandemic, critics say the pace of improvement remains unacceptably slow, with no nationwide mandate in sight.